SADAG launches two new support groups in November

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is launching two new online support groups this November for residents living with mental disorders and for entrepreneurs.

SADAG says the effort is aimed at providing guidance, understanding, and a sense of belonging for people facing similar challenges.

The group’s Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Panic online support group hosted its first session on Wednesday, November 1 at 19:30 and will be followed by meetings on the last Wednesday of each month.

“Members will be offered a helping hand and can expect a safe environment to share, learn, and uncover strategies for managing their mental health,” said SADAG support group leader Sisonke Nkonki.

Contact Nkonki on 072 015 8384 for more information about this group.

Rekord spoke to a young TUT student living with an anxiety disorder.

“Living with anxiety in Tshwane, just like in any urban environment is quite challenging. The busy city life and daily interactions sometimes intensify my symptoms of anxiety. One aspect I’ve personally struggled with is the impact on my speech,” said fourth-year journalism student Kgaugelo Salene.

“Anxiety makes it difficult to communicate effectively, leading to a lot of self-doubt and a fear of judgment from others and it has affected my daily interactions. On the positive side, I’m receiving help and treatment and I’m fortunate to have both a psychologist and a psychiatrist guiding me through this journey.”

Salene believes that individuals suffering from these kinds of disorders should be granted access to affordable mental healthcare. More should be done to look out for this sector that still suffers from stigmas.

“I believe individuals living with anxiety and similar disorders should receive accessible mental healthcare such as therapy, counselling, and medication when necessary. Supportive communities or support groups and safe spaces where individuals can share their experiences and coping strategies should be available,” said Salene.

The free online support group for entrepreneurs starts on November 9 and continues every second Thursday.

The group is being led by Erin-Leigh De Vries.

“Entrepreneurship can be an exciting, yet often solitary journey. This group provides a platform for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, you’re welcome to join this dynamic community,” De Vries said.

SADAG says that the groups are open to anyone seeking guidance, support, and a sense of community. Residents managing a mental health condition or navigating the entrepreneurial world are encouraged to reach out to these support groups that aim to empower and inform.

Rekord reached out to a local entrepreneur to gain her insights on what it was like starting her own business.

“It is difficult and has caused mental struggle for me,” said Revolution Trails owner and founder, Glizelle Langerman.

Revolution Trails is a running club that often hosts trail runs/walks around the metro.

Langerman believes having a passion for what you do is the key to success.

“If you have a passion for something, you’ll get the time and motivation to get it done. You always go through difficult times to get the right things, the right people and so forth but as long as you keep trying, you will succeed.”

According to her, corporations and governments should do more to help small businesses and entrepreneurs grow in this difficult market space.

“One thing that is killing us is tax and VAT. If you have a small company, it can devastate your business and mental health,” Langerman said.

To participate in the online support groups, please visit SADAG’s website for more details at www.sadag.org, or call 0800 21 22 23 or SMS 31393 to speak to a counsellor.

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